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Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce is a tasty treat that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights in. You can make this yummy appetizer in just 20 minutes using brie cheese, cranberry sauce, and a few simple ingredients. It’s a great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce from holiday meals.
This dish is easy to customize. You can add nuts like pistachios or hazelnuts for crunch, or drizzle honey on top for extra sweetness. Serve it with crackers or bread for a crowd-pleasing snack that looks fancy but takes little effort to make.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
Here’s what you’ll need to make baked brie with cranberry sauce:
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (8-16 oz)
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish
For the homemade cranberry sauce:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
You can substitute frozen cranberries for fresh ones. If you prefer, use store-bought cranberry sauce instead of making your own.
Don’t have brie? Try camembert or other soft-rind cheeses. They melt just as nicely.
For a twist, swap the cranberry sauce with fig jam, apricot preserves, or raspberry jam. Each offers a unique flavor that pairs well with brie.
Want to add some crunch? Sprinkle chopped pistachios, pecans, or walnuts on top before serving.
To make it vegan, use a plant-based brie alternative. Many stores now carry vegan cheese options that melt well.
Remember, you can adjust the amount of cranberry sauce to your liking. Start with less and add more if needed.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the brie wheel on the prepared sheet. If you prefer, slice it in half horizontally to create two rounds.
Spoon cranberry sauce over the top of the brie. Leave a small border around the edge.
For extra flavor, mix some brown sugar, vanilla, and orange zest into your cranberry sauce before adding it.
Sprinkle chopped nuts like pistachios or hazelnuts on top for a nice crunch.
Bake for 8-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the cheese soft and gooey, but not melted everywhere.
The fruit should be bubbling when it’s ready. Cooking time may vary, so check often.
Once done, carefully transfer to a serving plate. Add some fresh herbs for a pretty touch.
Serve right away with crackers, bread, or apple slices. Enjoy your warm, creamy baked brie!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Let’s make your baked brie with cranberry sauce even better! Here are some handy tips and tricks:
• Use a sharp knife to score the top of the brie before baking. This helps the cheese melt evenly.
• Try different toppings like chopped nuts, honey, or fresh herbs for extra flavor and crunch.
• Serve your baked brie with a variety of crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices for dipping.
Want to save some for later? No problem! Here’s how to store your leftovers:
- Let the brie cool completely
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days
To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warm and gooey again.
Pro tip: Make the cranberry sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you can quickly assemble and bake your brie when guests arrive.
Remember, room temperature brie bakes more evenly. Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you plan to bake it.